Explores the different forms of diversity found in families and family life in western societies. Distinguishes five types of moral values that families teach, examining the potential of each for diversity. States that a balance among the rights of families, schools, and children, who can develop into autonomous moral agents, is required. (CMK)

Maintains that a weakening of spiritual myths as the transmitter of communal values places a greater responsibility on the home and school to create these values. Asserts that these values can be defined through patterns of social action and interaction, and reinforced through the general curriculum. (MJP)

Data from four separate case studies examining socialization and moral education in the elementary schools of Jamaica, Argentina, Uruguay, and Venezuela are compared and analyzed. The analysis is intended to help national officials, university personnel, and community leaders interpret what is happening in relation to moral values and the…